The Shedd Aquarium, the Field Museum of Natural History, the Museum of Contemporary Art and the world-renowned Art Institute are all must-see places within a few blocks of the shore.If shopping and fine dining are on your list, you can't do better than to wander along the Magnificent Mile, that famously fabulous stretch of prime retail space on Michigan Avenue.
The constantly evolving, interactive exhibits provide a fascinating hands-on experience that everyone can enjoy.No area is absolutely safe, of course, from the quietest suburb to the most crowded tourist centers – which are, by the way, quite often haunted by pickpockets and purse-snatchers. MSI is the largest science center in the Western Hemisphere. In fact, the university's grounds were largely framed by Frederick Law Olmsted's designs for the exposition. Its main campus is a showcase of Gothic architecture (complete with gargoyles!) Artists whose studios are in the fabled Flatiron Arts Building open their doors to guests the first Friday of every month.Old Town, a little east of Wicker Park, is a district with a rich, lively history.
When they’re knowledgeable, fair housing laws effectively bar them from sharing what they know with you.Public radio station WBEZ has come to your rescue with CPD Chief of Organized Crime Nicholas Roti expressed several concerns about the map to WBEZ, including the following:Chief Roti also expressed concern about the possibility that such maps would stigmatize any particular Chicago neighborhood as being affiliated with gangs. “That could go into businesses looking to start there.” Yes, you read that head-scratcher right.
A confused tourist consulting a map might as well paint a bull's-eye on his back.
Here are 7 of the most dangerous neighborhoods in Chicago that you might want to avoid if you decide to visit the city. For the most part, they’re completely ignorant of the facts on the ground.
If a stranger approaches you asking for directions or the time, don't become engaged; keep walking.Causes of crime are varied and complex.
Keep your phone in your pocket, but save texting for later. Although Chicago has long had a reputation as a center of crime and violence, there are many areas where visitors can feel safe as long as they follow some common-sense guidelines.
The neighborhoods most affected by violence are the poorest, where there's been little or no investment in development and economic growth. Even if you're just window-shopping, you'll have fun.
So how do you identify your personal “no-go” zones? There's a troubling history of conflict between the citizenry and the police in many of these neighborhoods as well.Fortunately, Chicago's law enforcement operations have been working to expand training, update technology and support more community involvement in the safeguarding of these vulnerable neighborhoods. Perhaps some day in the not-so-far-distant future, these areas will grow into beautiful, inviting spaces where both residents and visitors can feel safe.Leaf Group is a USA TODAY content partner providing general travel information. Ranking of Chicago Area neighborhoods with low crime based on crime rates for murder, rape, assault, and other crime statistics by neighborhood.